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FAQs

Many of the frequently asked questions concerning veterans education benefits at UNF are listed below. For additional questions, contact the Military and Veterans Resource Center directly at (904) 620-5131or by emailing mvrc@unf.edu.

Additional FAQs for Veterans can be found at:

  • How can I get a deferment of payment for my tuition and fees?

    Chapter 31 Veteran Readiness & Employment, Chapter 33 Post 9/11 and the Fry Scholarship have contracts created once the School Certifying Official (SCO) documents your VA certification in the UNF system. The contract is a type of deferment that will prevent your classes from being dropped until the VA pays your tuition to the school.

    Tuition for Chapter 33 students is posted by your SCOs after the add/drop period is over. Once the school receives the tuition payment, Student Financial Services posts it to your account.

    Chapter 31 and Fry Scholarship students tuition is invoiced through a program called Tungsten.  Student Financial Services is responsible for the invoicing the VA and applying payment.

    If you use Chapter 1606 Montgomery G.I. Bill® Selected Reserves, Chapter 30 Montgomery G.I. Bill® Active Duty or Chapter 35, you will receive stipends directly from the VA. Nothing is paid to the school from the VA. 

    UNF understands that the VA pays in arrears—meaning the VA you will not receive a stipend until long after classes have started. This can put your classes in danger from being dropped. To prevent that, the School Certifying Official (SCO) creates a deferment for you once you are certified with the VA and that certification is annotated in the UNF system. This deferment will prevent your classes from being dropped on payment due dates.

    Terms of the deferment agreement:

    • The full amount of tuition and fees assessed for that academic term must be paid 60 days from the University's payment deadline. This includes fees for withdrawal, reinstatement and late fees. 
    • You agree to make the deferred payment on time (by the 60th day) regardless of the payment status of his or her VA Benefits (exceptions are made during a government shutdown). 
    • You understand that UNF will take appropriate actions—as determined by the administrative policy—in the event that you fail to pay all fees due by the appropriate date.
    • You agree to pay any costs or related expenses incurred in the collection of these fees.
  • Do I qualify for an out-of-state tuition waiver if I am not a Florida resident for tuition purposes?

    The following students may receive out-of-state fee waivers:

    • Active duty military (no matter where they reside) and their dependents (living Florida)
    • Veterans and dependents using G.I. Bill® benefits, must live in Florida   
    The Student Financial Services website lists eligibility requirements and required documentation (scroll to see "Veteran and G.I. Bill® Dependent Out-of-State Tuition Waiver Program" or "Active Duty Military.")
  • What is military Tuition Assistance (TA)?

    Military Tuition Assistance is a benefit paid to eligible members of the military. Each service has its own criteria for eligibility, service requirements, application processes and restrictions. This money is usually paid directly to the school by the individual services.

    Active duty service members who intend to use military Tuition Assistance (TA) should contact their base Educational Services Officer (ESO) or education counselor before registration to confirm the eligibility for tuition assistance.

    For more information, contact your military branch for details on your eligibility and the branch's process for submitting the tuition assistance forms.

    The Florida National Guard provides tuition assistance through their Education Dollars for Duty (EDD). You must go through you unit's education office or go to the Florida National Guard website for further information.

  • Where do I submit my paperwork if I'm using Tuition Assistance or EDD?
    If you are seeking to use tuition assistance or Education Dollars for Duty (EDD), you must do the following:
    • Visit their Education Services Officer or Education Counselor
    • Request a tuition assistance/EDD voucher from their respective branch of service before the first day of school
    • Send tuition assistance vouchers electronically to the UNF Student Financial Services office.
    Students may use Chapter 33 Post 9/11 G.I. Bill® benefits and DoD tuition assistance during the same term.
  • How can I determine the total cost of attendance for my program of study?

    Visit UNF's College Navigator site. These figures are projected estimates based on current tuition/fee rates. Total program cost may be estimated by multiplying the annual cost estimate by the number of years in the academic program. Actual total program cost is subject to change based on a number of factors such as tuition/fee rates set by the Florida legislature, Florida Board of Governors or UNF Board of Trustees and future aid eligibility.

    Note: UNF cannot account for every unforeseen variable that may affect total program cost, an individual’s actual total program cost may be lower or higher. We will keep the total program costs estimates up-to-date based on the most recent information available.

    Estimated Chapter 33 Tuition & Fees 

    Estimated Tuition & Fees (Entitlement Based on Eligibility Tiers)
    ​Eligibility Tier (as indicated on Certificate of Eligibility) ​Estimated Tuition & Fees Per Academic Year(based on 30 hours of undergraduate enrollment)
    ​100% $6,450
    ​90% $5,805
    ​80% $5,160
    ​70% $4,515
    ​60% $3,870
    ​50% $3,225
    ​40% $2,580

     

  • What should I do if I’m having problems with my benefits?

    If you have not received your Certificate of Eligibility, then you should take the following actions: 

    • Allow for a reasonable amount of time (four to six weeks minimum in most cases) for the Regional Processing Office (RPO) to process your claim
    • Check the status of your claim and the estimated enrollment certification processing time via the automated telephone information system at 1-888-442-4551 (GI-BILL-1)?
    • Make an electronic inquiry through the ask.va.gov portal, make sure to provide all necessary identification and a complete explanation of your situation

    If you have not been paid your monthly stipend (Chapters 1606, 30, or 35) or BAH/MHA (Chapters 31 and 33 or Fry Scholarship), you may do any of the following:

    • Ensure your enrollment has been certified with the VA by your School Certifying Official.
    • Allow for a reasonable amount of time (10 business day, minimum, in most cases) for the Regional Processing Office (RPO) to process your enrollment certification
    • Check the status of your enrollment certification and the estimated processing time via the automated telephone information system at 1-888-442-4551 (GI-BILL-1)
    • Make an electronic inquiry through the ask.va.gov portal, make sure to provide all necessary identification and a complete explanation of your situation

    After you have contacted the VA and your problem persists, please visit the Military and Veterans Resource Center. The staff will be happy to assist you in finding a resolution.

  • What is the monthly rate for my education benefit?

    Monthly rates vary depending upon which Education Benefit you receive. Veterans Affairs provides rate tables on their website.

    The monthly amount of your VA educational award may be prorated if necessary.

    For example: if the first term of your enrollment begins on the 15th of the month, the VA will divide your monthly rate by 30 (the number of days in a standard month). This will provide your daily rate. Your daily rate is then multiplied by the number of days you are attending class that month. This is the amount of your check for the first month of attendance.

    Payment is made at the end of each month. For example, you will be paid in February for attendance during January, in March for attendance in February, in April for attendance in March and so on.

  • How many credit hours must I take to receive the maximum monthly allowance?
    It is important for anyone receiving VA Education Benefits to be aware of hour requirements to be considered full time for both graduate or undergraduate students. The VA calls the calculation of this as "Rate of Pursuit."
    Undergraduate Rate of Pursuit in the Full Term
    Credit Hours Training Time Amount of Pay
    12 or more Full time Maximum allowance
    9 - 11 3/4 time 75% of maximum allowance
    6 - 8 1/2 time 50% of maximum allowance
    5 or less Below 1/2 time Tuition and fees**

    ** For training below 1⁄2 time Rate of Pursuit, the VA will pay for tuition and fees only. This is not per month—it is total. In some cases, they may send a lump sum payment or they can send a portion of your tuition and fees for each month.

    This chart above is not reflective of Post-9/11/Chapter 33 benefit pay. Chapter 33 students must be 51% rate of pursuit to get any BAH/MHA.

    View all Education Benefit Payment Rates on the Department of Veterans Affairs website. 

    Graduate Rate of Pursuit in the Full Term
    Credit Hours Training Time Amount of Pay
    9 or more Full time Maximum allowance
    6 - 8 3/4 time 75% of maximum allowance
    5 1/2 time 50% of maximum allowance
    4 or less Below 1/2 time Tuition and fees**

    ** For training below 1⁄2 time Rate of Pursuit, the VA will pay for tuition and fees only. This is not per month—it is total. In some cases, they may send a lump sum payment or they can send a portion of your tuition and fees for each month.

    This chart above is not reflective of Chapter 33 Post-9/11 benefit pay. Chapter 33 students must be at 51% rate of pursuit to get any BAH/MHA.

    A Special Note Concerning Split Sessions for Degree-Seeking Students

    UNF offers split sessions referred to as "accelerated sessions" by the VA.  UNF's accelerated sessions are the First and Second Half of the spring and fall semesters (terms 1H and 2H) or Summer Sessions B, C, 8 week term, and 10 week term).

    This means the VA will accelerate pay status in proportion to the rate of the split sessions. A full-time course load will be different for students enrolled in the split sessions. For this reason, you should check with a VA Certifying Official to be sure of the actual rate of acceleration.

    The following is an example of the hours necessary to be considered a full-time undergraduate student during the summer semesters:

    Full Time Rate of Pursuit for Accelerated Sessions (Undergraduate)
    Option 1 Option 2
    1 (12 weeks) - 9 hours 1H (8 weeks) - 4 hours
    2H (8 weeks) - 4 hours

     

    Full Time Rate of Pursuit for Accelerated Sessions (Graduate)
    Option 1 Option 2
    1 (12 weeks) - 6 hours 1H (8 weeks) - 3 hours
    2H (8 weeks) - 3 hours

    Note: The number of hours needed to be full-time for the school and financial aid purposes may differ from the VA hour requirement as well. Be sure to check with the financial aid office and the registrar's office on the financial aid credit-hour requirements for full-time. Graduate student's full time status may vary according to their assistantships.

  • Must I maintain a certain GPA in order to keep my VA Education Benefits?

    All students receiving VA Education Benefits must maintain certain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) as detailed in the UNF Policy.

    VA regulations allow students to attend school under a probationary status for two consecutive terms while they continue to receive educational benefits. However, benefits will be terminated following the second consecutive term of attendance under probationary status if the student's cumulative grade point average does not meet the university's published SAP.

    Students using VA education benefits must meet with a School Certifying Official after reinstatement of a dismissal from unsatisfactory progress.

  • Will my VA benefits cover the cost of tutoring?

    The VA will pay up to $100 per month but not more than the cost for tutoring. There is a lifetime maximum of $1,200. 

    For eligibility and VA Form 22-1990t visit the G.I. Bill® website.

  • How can I qualify for priority registration?

    In compliance with Florida Statute 1004.075, degree-seeking veterans, active duty, and their dependents are eligible for priority registration if registered with the Military & Veterans Resource Center.

    You must have a military-connected designation on your UNF student record. In order to have this designation, you would have needed to self-identify during your admissions process or we may update your information.

    For more information on registration procedures please visit the Records and Registration website.

  • How do I drop/withdraw from a course? How does it affect my VA benefits?

    Dropping a Course (No Academic or Financial Impact)

    Students may drop a course during the first week of classes, known as the Add/Drop Period.

    Courses may be dropped through myWings or in person at One-Stop Student Services.

    If you drop a course during the Add/Drop Period:

    • The course will not appear on your transcript.
    • You will not be responsible for the tuition and fees associated with the course.
    • There is generally no impact on your VA education benefits.

    Withdrawing from a Course (May Impact VA Benefits)

    After the Add/Drop Period ends, you may no longer drop a course. Instead, you must withdraw from the course by the withdrawal deadline listed in the Academic Calendar.

    Before withdrawing, review your student account for any holds that may prevent registration changes. Students are responsible for resolving holds before applicable deadlines. Withdrawal deadlines will not be extended due to registration holds.

    If you withdraw by the published deadline:

    • A grade of "W" will appear on your transcript.
    • The withdrawal will not affect your GPA.
    • The VA generally treats the withdrawal as if you never attended the course.

    Because of this, withdrawing from a course may create a debt with the VA, UNF, or both.

    If the VA has already paid tuition and fees for the course, UNF may be required to return those funds to the VA. In that case, you may become responsible for repaying the University.

    Mitigating Circumstances

    If you withdraw due to circumstances beyond your control, the VA may consider those circumstances when determining whether a debt should be created.

    Examples of mitigating circumstances include:

    • Illness or injury of the student
    • Death, illness, or serious injury of a family member
    • Employment changes or relocation
    • Unanticipated work schedule conflicts
    • Financial or personal hardships

    If you believe you have mitigating circumstances, contact the VA at 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) or submit a request through Ask VA at ask.va.gov. The VA may require a detailed statement and supporting documentation.

    Failing a Course

    If you fail a course, you will receive a punitive grade that is calculated into your GPA.

    Unlike a withdrawal, the VA generally does not require an explanation and typically will not create a debt solely because you failed the course. The VA considers the course payable through your last date of attendance.

    However, students who stop attending class and receive a failing grade for non-attendance may be subject to different VA rules and potential debt creation.

  • Can I take a course by independent study and receive payment for it?

    Yes as long as the course is a part of an approved program of study (degree or a certificate program) at UNF. The course description or syllabus must show what interaction will occur between the student and the faculty member. 

    All programs of study must be approved by the state approving agency in order for VA benefits to be authorized. Supporting documents should be submitted to a School Certifying Official.

  • Can I take a course at another institution and receive payment for it?

    Yes, but you must complete a request for a "Concurrent Enrollment Form/Parent Letter." The Parent Letter will be prepared by the MVRC and sent to the other institution.  

    Note: The course taken at the other institution must count towards your degree here at UNF.

  • Can I take remedial or deficiency courses and still get paid for it?
    Yes, but the remedial courses can only be certified if there is a proven need for the course by a placement test or if the course is required as a prerequisite for another course in your major.
  • How can I determine what classes I should take?

    You should meet with your academic advisor to ensure all classes you register for apply directly to your declared degree program, minor, or approved certificate.

    The VA will only pay for courses that are required for your program of study, count toward graduation or are approved electives listed in the catalog.

    You should also:

    • Review your Degree Evaluation in Degree Works to see your remaining requirements.
    • Confirm any electives are truly program-applicable before registering.
    • Speak with as SCO in the MVRC if you have questions about whether a class is VA-fundable.

    Taking courses that do not apply to your program may reduce your enrollment status and could result in overpayments or debts with the VA.

  • Where can I find UNF's College Scorecard?

     UNF's College Scorecard can help students determine the average cost of an education program, allows you to calculate your own personal net price, shows our overall graduation rate, and UNF’s average salary after completion. In addition, the scorecard shows the percentage of students receiving federal loans, the median total debt after graduation and repayment rate.